n.1 a permanent fixed structure forming an enclosure and providing protection from the elements etc. (e.g. a house, school, factory, or stable).
2 the constructing of such structures.
Phrases and idioms:
building line a limit or boundary between a house and a street beyond which the owner may not build. building site an area before or during the construction of a house etc. building society Brit. a public finance company which accepts investments at interest and lends capital for mortgages on houses etc.